Revealing the True Meanings Behind These Misunderstood Songs

Published on 07/06/2023
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‘Love Song’ – Sara Bareilles

If you’ve ever walked into a lobby with a free piano (or listened to the radio in 2007… at all), chances are you’ve heard Sara Bareilles’ chart-topping breakout tune. It might appear that a song titled “Love Song” would be, well, a love song, but the chorus disproves that impression almost immediately. Even more intriguing is the fact that this love ballad was never about a person, or a lady, for that matter. Bareilles created the song in a moment of rage after her record label repeatedly turned down songs she had written. “I became very insecure about it, and then I became very angry at myself for caring what anyone thought.” “Love Song” was her message to her label: “This is me, take it or leave it.” (It’s a good thing they agreed to accept it.)

'Love Song' Sara Bareilles

‘Love Song’ Sara Bareilles

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‘London Calling’ – The Clash

Though it has developed to take on a broader meaning, including the popular interpretation that it is an indictment of British politics and foreign affairs, this song was originally about something much simpler. In 1979, a British newspaper printed a headline warning that, with rapid global warning, the Thames river could overflow and flood London. When Mick Jones discovered this, he (in his words) “flipped.” As a result, the song is about a dread of drowning rather than politics.

'London Calling' The Clash

‘London Calling’ The Clash

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